Amapiano singer Dalene Swartz, best known as Dinky Kunene, has opened up about going on a year-long unplanned break from releasing music and giving birth to her first child.
In a post on social media, the Wena Dali revealed she has been dealing with issues behind the scenes, trying to break away from a “really bad contract”.
“I’ve been struggling for almost a year to get out of a really bad contract, she said.
“I can’t drop shit, bro.”
She advised artists not to chase money.
“Don’t run for money, you will end up in the wrong situation. So, even If I make music right now, I can’t drop shit, bro. But I’m not unhappy, nothing meant for me will miss me.”
She expressed that the obstacle allowed her time to bond with her newborn.
“I also had a baby and took a year for myself. I’m sure other mamas can agree that navigating a schedule with a baby is hectic, and I’m not going to let other people raise my child because I’m chasing something that’s not beneficial for me right now. My kid comes first.
According to a source close to the artist, she been trying to break away from a contract with a major independent label/distributor, Empire Africa. The friend said the Idols SA season 14 and 15 contestant revealed she was frustrated after promises by the label were not met.
“She has not released any music; they are delaying every release without valid reasons, almost as if they are making way for other artists to shine, while she remains on the sidelines.”
Empire is home to artists Babalwa M, Nontokozo Mkhize, Emtee, Cowboii, KMat, and many other.
The friend said the label promised her an advance to help in the making of the music, which she has not received in full.
“A lot has happened. Some of her vocals wer removed from certain songs and other vocalists were added. She has been restricted from recording music with other artists, and if she tries, the songs are removed from streaming platforms, she says.
Empire could not be reached for comment.
